one sinner who repents

Thursday, November 03, 2011
St. Martin de Porres, Religious (Optional Memorial)

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

Romans 14:7-12 Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14 Luke 15:1-10

Luke 15:7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

Today it is popular to think about Jesus accepting us just as we are. But according to Jesus this doesn't bring him joy. He desires that we repent. That means that we change, that we put away our sinful ways. If we think about what Heaven will be like, do we see something similar to this life where sin is prolific? I think that Heaven is a place where there is no sin. So if we want to be there and to enjoy it, then we must not be comfortable with sin either. In fact, we must also take joy in repentance. Let's look for change rather than acceptance.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to change and to not take your grace for granted, but rather to seek your joy in my repentance.

Amen